Vacuum Devices for Erectile Dysfunction

A Vacuum Erection Device (VED) is the least invasive and most affordable treatment for Erectile Dysfunction (ED) and penile rehabilitation. The VED is a plastic tube that fits over the penis and is pressed against the base of the penis and pubis. It uses suction via a hand or battery-powered pump to pull blood into the penis and cause engorgement/erection.

VED Use for Sexual Activity

For sexual activity the VED will produce an erection sufficient for intercourse. It is used in conjunction with a constriction ring that fits around the base of the penis to maintain the erection after the vacuum draws blood into the penis. The constriction ring should not be used for more than 30 minutes at a time. If you take anticoagulation medications like Coumadin (warfarin), aspirin, Plavix (clopidogrel), and/or Lovenox, discuss VED therapy with your physician. VED use may not be recommended with these medications.

VED Use for Penile Rehabilitation

VED therapy can be used to maintain penile length for men with erectile dysfunction, and is often recommended for patients who have had prostate surgery or other radical pelvic surgery. Any patient with erectile dysfunction in which the loss of nocturnal erections occurs is a candidate for VED therapy. Nocturnal erections work to flood the penis with oxygen rich blood to engorge, stretch, and revitalize the penile tissue. As men age it is common for the frequency of nocturnal erections to diminish. In this case, the VED is used 3-5 times per week for approximately 20-30 minutes each time without use of the constrictive ring.  VED therapy will cause engorgement in, and stretching of, the penis, that may prevent penile shortening that would have otherwise occurred from decreased blood flow and lack of stretching.

Battery Powered vs. Manual VED Pumps

Battery powered VED pumps are ideal for people who have arthritis or dexterity problems. Manual erection devices come in one-handed and two-handed models.

Helpful Articles

• Vacuum Erection Device Use for Erectile Dysfunction - In this article Dr. Jared Wallen discusses the use of vacuum erection devices for the treatment of erectile dysfunction and penile rehabilitation

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